Sir Clive Woodward may return if axe falls on Rob Andrew

Speculation is mounting that Rob Andrew’s future as the Rugby Football Union’s director of elite rugby is on the line — and that Sir Clive Woodward could be sounded out as a possible replacement.

After another disappointing RBS Six Nations Championship campaign, Andrew’s position is under intense scrutiny. One source told The Times last night that in the aftermath of Francis Baron’s decision to step down as chief executive: “I understand Andrew is next on the list.”

Andrew, who is on an annual salary of more than £400,000 and is understood to be on a 12-month rolling contract, has been in his role since September 2006.

If he were to depart, the name being mentioned as a likely successor is that of Woodward, who could